Commodore's Reception 2016
Published 01:00 on 10 Jun 2016
When Dean and Reddyhoff suggested that they would like to sponsor an event for Haslar Yacht Club, nobody realised that we were embarking on one of our most ambitious and most successful events yet.
Christened the 'Commodore's Reception' in memory of the dinner of the same name, this took place on the lawn at Haslar Marina on 4th June 2016. D&R had erected a marquee, and hired equipment for us, as well as funding the Pig Roast (with trimmings) provided by Hadlows in Titchfield. Haslar's staff, and particularly Deano, were on hand to help with everything from set up to coffee and cakes to sustain the committee and helpers, led of course by Brian Dunton. As well as hiring tables and chairs, the marina also provided flags and bunting for decoration.
Brian had brought his music, powerful amplifiers and speakers, but in the end it was only the microphone that was used, as people were happy to talk without having to compete with loud music.
Haslar Yacht Club provided the other essential ingredient for a good evening: beer, wine and softer drink served by David Whitehead and a team of helpers.
HM Coastguard attended, bringing along their coastal rescue vehicle, and gave a short talk that was quite amusing and well received. They stayed on for a while to talk more about their work.
Meanwhile, a team from the RNLI were on hand during the day busily inspecting life jackets and making recommendations.
There was a very high take up for the event, with registrations closing as the total climbed to 114. There was only one pig to be shared around! Hadlows had however selected a big one, and in the end there was plenty of meat left for second helpings. In addition to current members, we had encouraged both non-members and people from other local marinas to attend, and several new members were welcomed to the club.
No Commodore's Reception would be complete without a few words from our Commodore, Grahame Solway, who explained that we were a friendly club that met on the water in our boats, not simply a social club, and with that he removed his tie to emphasise his message. Grahame did however take the opportunity to present a tie to Maurice Owens, 93, in recognition of his election as our first honorary member. Maurice still lives on and sails his boat 'Old Possum' single handed.
Related
- Commodore's Reception (4 June 2016, 18:00 - 22:30)
Last updated 13:22 on 25 October 2023